Stay Calm And Cool While Performing Exercise In The Heat
Performing exercise in the heat can be very difficult and challenging for you especially after winter. With the increase in temperatures and level of humidity during summer you may be susceptible to dehydration which not only causes fatigue and dizziness but also results in muscle cramps.
If you are not habitual to performing exercise in heat your blood pressure may also come down, causing fainting. The sudden start of exercise in the heat may also cause heat exhaustion and sun burn.
You may be enthusiastic about performing exercise in heat but your body may not be allowing you to do so because it needs some to itself with the hot and humid climate.
Follow some simple steps to ensure safety during exercise in heat and avoid harmful effects.
Remain hydrated
The first and foremost requirement for smooth and safe exercise in heat is to keep body well hydrated. Dehydration may not only affect your performance but may also put you at the risk of fatigue and even heat stroke.
Take two glasses of water at least two hours before you start your workout.
Keep taking 8 ounces of water in the gap of 15 minutes during workout. Bring a hydration pack at the venue of exercise for your convenience. Do not stop taking water after workout. Continuous water intake helps make up for the loss of body fluids.
Consider weighing your body before and after a prolonged exercise. Make up for the loss of every pound of fluid by drinking two cups of water.
Put on suitable clothes
The clothes that you put on during exercise also determines whether or not you will be comfortable with your workout during heat.
Do not wear heavy clothes that may affect your performance especially when you are going for a long walk or run. Rather wear lightweight and light colored clothes which make you feel comfortable.
Also wear hat for protecting your head, shielding your eyes and safeguarding your face from sun. Ensure coolness and dryness of your feet by wearing performance socks.
Allow your body to take some time to cope with the heat. In case you are feeling dizzy or faint soon after starting exercise, you would better stop it and rather go into cool environment and relax by drinking fluids.
